This morning I woke up with a determination to notice the words that (were about to) come out of my mouth. I consider myself a positive person, an encourager, actually…so, I was surprised with what I discovered during my intentional self-monitoring.
We are told, in the Bible, that our words are simply the outpouring of the condition of our heart. Apparently, I have some much needed heart surgery in my immediate future…. uh… as in RIGHT NOW.
Three times within the first ten minutes of my communication with another, my words were (going to be) negative.
Tiny little interjections of MY opinion or MY standard, seemingly harmless corrections that could foster a controlling relationship, conversations in which my motive was to allow opportunity to bring down another rather than build up.
Critical. Controlling. Condemning. What? I had no clue!
The reality of my potential words that were intercepted today have been…well…very telling. I guess I’m not such a joy to live with.
Are you like me? Do you struggle with the words that proceed out of your mouth?
The solution involves a heart change as well as self-control.
Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking guile. (Psalm 34:13)
Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; Keep watch over the door of my lips. (Psalm 141:3)
Keep thy heart with all diligence, for out of it are the issues of life. (Proverbs 4:23)
If you have been foolish in exalting yourself, or if you have devised evil, put your hand over your mouth. (Proverbs 30:32)
Those are a few verses I know by heart…that I need to meditate on…and put into practice…daily.
What are your favorite verses? Is heart surgery needed in your life too?
As Believers in Christ, we have direct access to the One who can change our hearts…and our words…if we only desire it.
Rhonda letsencourageoneanotherandbuildeachotherup ellis